MYST'S RESPONSES

What is Mystery NH?

Mystery NH is an immersive, real-life room escape experience partially based on popular computer games and reality shows. A Mystery NH experience is fun and challenging, offering competition, teamwork and ultimately a great sense of achievement.

What is an escape room experience?

Your group of friends, family members, work colleagues, and maybe some new faces is “locked” inside a themed room and given a backstory. With 60 minutes on the clock, players will work as a team to find clues, solve puzzles, unlock items to solve the mystery and “escape”. The only tool you will need is your brain. Sounds simple, right? Maybe, but it is a lot of fun! Explore your inner detective at Mystery NH!

Will I actually be locked in the room?

No! You are not trapped, isolated or locked in the room. There will always be an accessible, unlocked door which you may exit if needed. Should you feel the need to leave the room, you are welcome to do so at any time; the clock, however, will not stop.

Will I be scared?

No. This is a mystery, not a haunted house; puzzle solving, not survival. Although the lights may be dimmed to enhance a room's ambiance, the rooms are not designed to be scary. However, other players may be frightened to find out you’re a super sleuth. And you may feel the pressure as the clock counts down, depending on how far you are along in the room.

How long does the experience take to complete?

The entire experience will take about 90 minutes. Your group will check-in and get a briefing and backstory of your selected room. Upon entering the room, the clock will start, giving your group 60 minutes to solve the mystery and escape the room. Afterward, there will be a chance for questions, feedback and the all-important group photo. Do not be late or you may miss your chance to participate!

I’m not a rocket scientist. Will I be able to solve the mystery and escape?

Definitely. In fact, being a rocket scientist may not actually help. No special skills are needed, but you do need to use your brain with a focus on common sense, thinking outside the box and reasoning. Being “wicked smart” isn’t as important as you might think and you don’t need to memorize everything from the encyclopedia (going old school here) before you arrive. Anyone can escape as all answers are in the room. You just need to find the right clues and use the right keys. Don’t forget to communicate. This is a team activity. Another player may know the location of other parts of a puzzle or clue. Each group will be allowed to request 3 hints during the game. At the game master's discretion, bonus hints may be given to help you along. With all that said, not all groups solve the mystery and escape in time.

Do you monitor the game?

We have cameras in the rooms for the game master to keep track of your progress. Each group will be allowed to request 2-4 hints during the game. At the game master's discretion, bonus hints may be given to help you along, should you get really stuck. The game master will also be watching for fair play and if we see you breaking any rules, you will be asked to leave without a refund.

What do we get if we beat the clock?

Bragging rights! A great picture of your successful team!

Can we do the room again if we fail?

Sorry, but no. We want every group to get the full experience without anyone having advance knowledge. And don’t get discouraged… most teams don’t get out in time. We are always planning new rooms and can’t wait for you to try those as well! Please sign up for our mailing list so you can be one of the first to know the news. We are always willing to listen to your ideas and feedback.

Anything in particular I should know about being in the room?

Yes! There is no running, crawling, climbing or strenuous activity involved. No food or drink. No smoking. No drugs or alcohol. No cell phone or camera use inside the room. Do not force anything open. Follow the game master’s rules and instructions. Be respectful of everything in the room, so others after you may also enjoy the experience. Do not break anything! You will be liable for any damage caused by misuse and/or not following the rules (see terms and conditions upon sign-in). If you are asked to leave for any violations, you must do so immediately, without a refund.

How old do I have to be to participate? Are there any age restrictions?

We recommended players be at least 8 years old in order to enjoy the room. We request that parents use their discretion in allowing their children's participation in the escape room experience. There's no better way to ruin everyone's experience than a young child pulling at your sleeve 20 minutes into the game, wanting to leave; or worse, not playing fair or dominating puzzles.

We ask that parties with young children book the entire room for exclusive use, so you may enjoy the experience as a group, without the anxiety associated with mixing unfamiliar players.

Our rooms are not kid-proof! Guests younger than 8 must be supervised at all times. Children not yet walking must be contained in a backpack or carrier. Strollers are not allowed in rooms.

Anyone age 17 or under must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Everyone must have a waiver signed by someone at least 18 years old.

NOTE: We recommend players be at least 8 years old to play and request that you call us if you have younger players. We do this for two reasons:

To talk directly with parents or guardians to reiterate what the experience entails, so the parent can make an informed decision about the appropriateness for their particular child; and

To maintain expectations for all players... Since our minimum age is 8 years old, if unfamiliar or mixed groups book together, it is expected that all players will be at least 8 years old. It could be quite disappointing to unknowingly book into a game with children under 8.

Please email info@mysterynh.com or call us at (603) 730-5009 with any questions about if this experience is appropriate for your kids.

Should I come in with a clear mind?

Absolutely! We highly recommend waiting to have that cocktail until after your game to make it more enjoyable. We have zero tolerance for anyone trying to participate while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Our staff has the right to refuse anyone, without explanation, for any reason and without refund. This is a game of logic and perception and you will need to have your full attention on solving puzzles and uncovering clues to aid in a successful escape.

Can we share our experience with others and post to social media?

Please let people know you participated in a Mystery NH experience, how much you enjoyed it and recommend they try it too, however we request that you do NOT share any details of the room, clues, codes, puzzles, answers, etc. We want every group to get the full experience without anyone having advance knowledge. Although, we do not allow any pictures or videos in any of the game rooms, feel free to take pictures in the waiting area. This is the same reasoning we do not allow guests to attempt the same room more than once.

Do I need to bring anything like lock picks, tools or secret decoder rings?

Bring your confirmation code (no need to print it, just have it on your cell phone) and of course, your brains, wits and sense of humor. If you need reading glasses, feel free to bring those as well. Do not bring any lock picks, secret decoder rings or any other tools as they will NOT be allowed in the rooms. Cell phone use is NOT permitted and must be turned off or silenced, in order to not diminish the experience. Everything you need will be in the room.

But I’m waiting for an important call. What do I do?

If you are taking time to enjoy an escape room experience, we suggest you postpone that call or let it go to voice mail and get back to them after your awesome experience. If you do get an emergency call that you must take, please exit the room before answering the call. The clock will still count down and the game will continue without you.

What should I wear?

Wear comfortable clothing and shoes. The room is climate controlled. Although, there is no running, crawling, climbing or strenuous activity involved, dress appropriately for thinking, standing, deciphering, bending to items on the floor, calculating, lock opening, laughing and congratulating your teammates. If you want to dress up or wear a costume based on the room's theme, you are welcome to do so. Should your costume interfere with the game play, the game master may ask you to change.

Who should experience Mystery NH’s games?

Anyone! Everyone! Family, friends, co-workers, roommates, teammates, corporate groups, wedding parties, school clubs, and more! This can be a great experience for team building or to celebrate a special occasion!

If I’m claustrophobic or have anxiety, can I play?

Yes. If you are comfortable in your living room, you'll be fine in our current rooms, however we want you to have fun and if you need a break, please feel free to step out of the room. The clock will not stop, so the rest of your team should continue. If you have any questions or concerns, please email info@mysterynh.com or call us at (603) 730-5009.

How physically strenuous is the experience? Will I need lots of physical strength?

Nothing is too strenuous. The physical activity is limited to standing and moving around the game room and opening draws, cabinets, and boxes. There may be an occasional need to bend to items on the floor. Think 'average office activities', not a gladiator challenge. Do not force anything open. Follow the game master’s rules and instructions. Be respectful of everything in the room, so others after you may also enjoy the experience. Do not break anything! You will be liable for any damage caused by misuse and/or not following the rules (see terms and conditions upon sign-in).

Are these games appropriate for players with special needs?

The rooms contain puzzles and locks that rely on mostly visual clues. Most players should have the ability to move freely around the room during play. If you have any questions or concerns, please email info@mysterynh.com or call us at (603) 730-5009.

Each of our rooms is designed with a maximum capacity for player enjoyment; typically 6 or 8 players. These maximums allow for mixed groups to have comfortable personal space. For families, friends and co-workers that don't mind having a little less individual elbow room, we may allow a few extra players. For fun's sake, we do not allow any fewer than 2 players in any room.

Will I be playing with someone I don’t know?

Possibly. If you do not book/reserve an entire room, you may be paired with other players. If you don't know them before playing, you will certainly know them when you’re done. Who knows, maybe you’ll make some new friends!

How do we get exclusive use of the room?

You must book/reserve the entire room (maximum capacity). If you have any questions , please email info@mysterynh.com or call us at (603) 730-5009.

How should we book a large group or schedule a special event?

The escape room experience is great for corporate team-building. wedding party outings, rainy day activities, school class trips, family bonding excursions and more. Please email bookings@mysterynh.com or call us at (603) 730-5009, so we can help organize your event.

Can I propose to my sweetie or better yet, get hitched, while in the escape room?

Funny you should ask, because yes, Beth is an ordained minister and can perform weddings. If you would like to pop the question or tie the knot, we can help with both of those big events. We do require at least one week's notice to prepare properly. Please email bookings@mysterynh.com or call us at (603) 730-5009, so we can help organize your big moment.

Do you work with non-profit organizations to host fundraisers?

Yes. We would love to talk with you about hosting your event. Please email bookings@mysterynh.com or call us at (603) 730-5009, so we can help organize your event.

Where are you located?

We are located inside the Mountain Valley Mall in North Conway, NH (right next to the Cinema 7 ticket counter). GPS: 44.018523,-71.1120631

What is the cost?

The cost is $25 per person, regardless of age group. Full payment is required at the time of booking.

How do I make a reservation?

Visit our "Book Now" page to view available room dates and times. You will also see the player capacity and how many other players have already signed up for the room.

For most of our rooms, if your group is one person larger than the room maximum capacity, you are welcome to book your group, understanding that you will have a little less elbow room. Please book the maximum players allowed, then forward your booking confirmation back to bookings@mysterynh.com with a note of the additional player. We will update the reservation on our end and you can pay for the remaining player upon arrival.

NOTE: We recommend players be at least 8 years old to play and request that you call us if you have younger players. We do this for two reasons:

To talk directly with parents or guardians to reiterate what the experience entails, so the parent can make an informed decision about the appropriateness for their particular child; and

To maintain expectations for all players... Since our minimum age is 8 years old, if unfamiliar or mixed groups book together, it is expected that all players will be at least 8 years old. It could be quite disappointing to unknowingly book into a game with children under 8.

Can we just show up without a reservation?

Yes, but not recommended. To be sure you can play the desired room on the day and time you want, you should make a reservation on our booking pageahead of time as the rooms do fill up. We accept credit or debit card payment (Visa, MC, American Express or Discover) or cash, for at-the-counter bookings.

No, our rooms are not kid-proof! There may be tripping hazards and small chokable objects in the room.

Guests younger than 8 must be supervised at all times. Children not yet walking must be contained in a backpack or carrier. Strollers are not allowed in rooms.

What happens if I need to cancel or reschedule?

We do not like “all sales are final” and understand “life happens”. However, when you make a reservation, we hold those spots for you and limit others who would like that same date and time. Therefore, you may reschedule up to 48 hours prior to your reservation time. Please make sure you email bookings@mysterynh.com and/or call (603) 730-5009 before you reach the 48 hour mark! If you are late or do not show, you will not be allowed to reschedule or receive a refund. Please plan accordingly.

Can we get a refund?

All of our games are non-refundable. However, we can reschedule your game if you contact us at least 48 hours prior to your reservation time. Please email bookings@mysterynh.com or call us at (603) 730-5009.

Any last minute tricks or hints?

Unless told otherwise, everything is a possible clue or part of a puzzle. Think outside the box. If you’re stuck, let another member of the group give it a try. If the code doesn’t work or make sense, think about it differently. Sometimes it’s best to try something else or work on a different puzzle, then go back to where you were stuck. You’ll likely go in with a clear mind, then get flustered before 15 minutes has elapsed (don’t worry about it). Breathe and don’t give up. And most important, enjoy the experience and have fun!

How do I ask a question that wasn’t answered?

Please email info@mysterynh.com or call us at (603) 730-5009 and we will be happy to answer your questions.